Sean Binkley

On Thursday January 8, 2026, this world lost a powerhouse person. She would have said she’s nothing special, but if you were lucky enough to share her space, you knew that wasn’t the case. Sean Binkley was a chaotically kind, tremendously talented, witty, quick, hyper intelligent, introspective, creative embodiment of determination who took no shit but gave it in spades. She commanded any room she set foot in with sass, a laugh that shook walls, and a magnetic energy that just made all the misfits feel at home.

A true multi-talented queen - Sean was so much more than met the eye.

She was one of the finest upholstery/detail professionals in the business and could take an interior from hopeless to top tier in an afternoon.

She loved Duke Basketball and The Carolina Panthers - one of those let her down far more than the other, but she would never have turned her back on any shade of blue (except the Tarheels).

She introduced more people to more bands than anyone else I know because when she connected with something, she wanted to share it.

She cultivated flowers and a sprig of leaves would turn to a lush, healthy burst of life in her care. Sunflowers were always her favorite and even though she swore she gave up them… she would have still planted a few because she had a soft spot for trying again.

She took care of people. So many people. She could be gruff and she would definitely put you in your place (and let’s be honest - you probably needed to hear it). But she had a way of showing the world the love she needed in her life - without hesitation, without strings, without expectation.

Sean’s world was carefully curated - full of characters who understood her impact even when they didn’t understand their own. Everyone was welcome, but her chosen were elite. She was a local legend and Wilmington loved her maybe even more than she loved Wilmington - that’s saying something because my god, did she love Wilmington.

Her music was her passion - soul bearing stories pulled together through late night thoughts, deep seated fears, a mound of what ifs and insecurities… then expressed with the talent, confidence and authenticity she was so incredibly admired for. Her raw, unfiltered approach to life is so relatable and music gave her voice a beat. Her bandmates were - and are - her brothers: rough around the edges, but tried and true invaluable pieces of who she became with stories that will be told for many years to come.

You’d find her most days at Reggie’s with her amazing chosen family, up on stage, playing pool, supporting the cause, cracking jokes, showing love - and always with her extra ice.

The ice thing - she and I always did have that part in common.

She was simply a phenomenal spirit trapped in a world never meant to hold her. That kind of soul doesn’t just fade to the wind, you just have to look a little closer to find her.

Sean is survived by:

Her mother Tonya Coulter Carter & husband Terry Carter of Murrell’s Inlet, SC who carried her into this world and with incomparable strength, ushered her out.

Her father Kevin Binkley of Chesnee, SC who was her rock, always in her corner and taught her the art of intelligent debate among so many other things.

Her sister Tori Binkley of Raleigh NC - who will forever see her only sibling’s soul in the beauty, wit, sass and character of her children: Sean’s nieces Kat Binkley, Kenz Brooks, Sophie Shaw and nephew Levi Shaw (all of Raleigh, NC).

Her grandparents Bob & Elizabeth (deceased) Mize of Maryville, TN who instilled in her that sports are life but love is paramount.

Her aunt Julie Nestor and husband Keith of Hickory NC

Her uncles Craig Binkley, Tim Binkley, Brad Mize, Bart Mize, Bret Mize and Blake Mize - each one with their own dynamic to share.

And her chosen family - the brokenhearted who will carry that love forward among each other.

Rest easy, beautiful. We sure miss you.

October 21, 1980 - January 8, 2026

“There is nothing but boundless LOVE, all the other bullshit isn’t even real.” - Sean Binkley

A Celebration of Sean’s Live will be held on February 22, 2026 at 4:30 pm at Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern 1415 S 42nd St Wilmington NC 28403